Nappy Brown: Dirty Old Blues Master

The Nappy Brown Review at the State Theatre, Falls Church, Virginia
November 2

Recommended beverage to go with this show:
Starr Hill Jomo Lager (slightly fruity,
flavorful microbrew from Charlottesville)

There were several excellent concert choices that night, though I went for the blues. The Nappy Brown Review featured an all-star blues band: Guitarists Bob Margolin and Sean Costello, Drummer Big Joe Maher, Keyboardist Ann Rabsen (of Saffire: Uppity Blues Women fame), and Mookie Brill on bass fiddle. All took turns singing during the first part of both sets before Brown took the stage.

Seeing Napolean Brown Culp, "Nappy Brown," live is quite the treat. His smooth vocals come from his gospel-infused blues style. Well-behaved during the first set, he let the antics come out in the second. At the end, the 78-year-old Nappy threw himself down on the stage mid-song and began gyrating and moaning. Sometimes da blues just do strange things to ya.

(above, right): Nappy Brown (center) with Bob Margolin on guitar and Ann Rabson on keys

Excellent show. Nappy is touring in support of his brand new album Long Time Coming on Blind Pig Records, which has received critical acclaim.

photos courtesy of Jim Carty